01/23/2026
As winter and very cold weather has settled in across Scott County, we can still play an important role in maintaining healthy watersheds. Even under all the snow and ice, the choices we make around our homes, farms, and communities influence the quality of water that ultimately flows into local streams, rivers, and the Mississippi River.
Here are key winter watershed health practices we encourage everyone to consider:
1. Use Salt Wisely
Salt and chemical de-icers commonly applied to driveways, sidewalks, and roads can wash into storm drains and waterways when the snow melts, harming aquatic life and altering water chemistry. Applying the least amount needed, sweeping up excess, or using alternatives like sand or grit can reduce these impacts.
2. Protect Soil & Vegetation
Exposed soil is vulnerable to erosion during winter rains and snowmelt.
• Keep soil covered with mulch or leaf litter.
• Maintain native plant buffers and vegetation along waterways to filter runoff and stabilize banks.
3. Manage Snow Thoughtfully
Where you pile snow matters. Snow removed from driveways and sidewalks can collect pollutants like oil, dirt and trash. Avoid dumping snow into storm drains, ditches, or directly into streams. Instead, place snow on grassy or vegetated areas where meltwater can infiltrate soil naturally.
4. Plan Ahead for Spring
Winter is a great time to plan and prepare for watershed improvement projects in the coming year:
• Consider winter cover crops or snow seeding to improve soil health and filtration in early spring.
• Review opportunities to install or maintain rain gardens, bioswales, and other green infrastructure that helps capture runoff. Learn about Scott County's RCPP program to help cover costs on agricultural lands.
Together, by taking small but thoughtful actions throughout the winter, we can reduce sediment and pollutant runoff, protect habitats, and support cleaner water for all who live in and downstream of our beautiful watersheds.
